I'm often asked why I'm still functioning so well. I still drive and take frequent trips. I'm still writing and, other than fighting with depression, live a fairly normal day-to-day life. My doctor friends keep telling me I don't have Alzheimer's.
My diagnosis was made 3 years ago on the basis of a an MRI and PET scan of my brain. Since then I've discovered that the diagnosis can only be suspected until I begin to get significant symptoms; i.e. getting lost, unable to make change, confused with names and faces.
So I have a very early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and, maybe, I don't have it at all. I don't let myself dwell on that possibility because I've adapted to the reality. And I also know that something is wrong. I'm failing in tiny little ways everyday. If it is not Alzheimer's it is something similar.
But, let me be clear. For all of you, out there, struggling with memory and fearing the worse, get a diagnosis now. Don't wait until your so far gone that you will not be able to help make plans. If you think it is too big a burden, just think about your spouse.
My diagnosis was made 3 years ago on the basis of a an MRI and PET scan of my brain. Since then I've discovered that the diagnosis can only be suspected until I begin to get significant symptoms; i.e. getting lost, unable to make change, confused with names and faces.
So I have a very early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and, maybe, I don't have it at all. I don't let myself dwell on that possibility because I've adapted to the reality. And I also know that something is wrong. I'm failing in tiny little ways everyday. If it is not Alzheimer's it is something similar.
But, let me be clear. For all of you, out there, struggling with memory and fearing the worse, get a diagnosis now. Don't wait until your so far gone that you will not be able to help make plans. If you think it is too big a burden, just think about your spouse.